What’s good and safe about pregnancy massage?

Massage offers many benefits for pregnant women. Done properly by a trained therapist, prenatal massage can help alleviate the aches and pains of pregnancy, improves circulation and relieves tension and fatigue. You might hear people tell you to skip massages while pregnant because it can harm your baby. That’s a misconception!

The truth is, wether you are pregnant or not, massage can only be as good as the person giving it to you. If you need to de-stress and think you could use a massage while pregnant — ask for referrals for properly trained massage therapists. An OB-gynechologist, midwife or a friend who’s had it before can point the way.

Here’s more reason why indulging in that massage can be good for you:

• Pressing certain acupuncture pressure points can minimize or completely relieve first trimester nausea.
• Stress relief on weight bearing joints such as ankles, neck, lower back and pelvis.
• Reduces swelling in hands and feet by stimulating blood and lymph circulation.
• Helps with relaxation and insomnia. Even if you don’t have insomnia, massage helps you get better quality sleep.
• Helps eliminate lactic acid from the body, helping your body’s circulatory and lymphatic systems.

I had regular weekly massages when I was pregnant and for me the best part… it just felt good and relaxing. I’m a believer in touch therapy.

There are still misconceptions that should be cleared concerning prenatal rubs. Massage, done properly, does not cause miscarriages. Rubbing the lower back or stomach will not dislodge the placenta. However, there are some guidelines to follow to make a prenatal massage session safe for you and your baby:

• Do not massage open wounds, areas with rashes or distended varicose veins.
• After 20 weeks of pregnancy, never lie on your back for a massage as this can compromise blood flow to the uterus. Note: you’re not even supposed to be sleeping on your back anymore at this stage.
• Massage of the abdomen must strictly be done by a professional massage therapist trained in prenatal massage.
• Avoid applying pressure between the ankle bone and heel. There are pressure points here that are connected to the uterus and can induce labor.

Go ahead and indulge on a pregnancy massage. But do note, now more than ever, it’s important that you get one from a professional massage therapist.